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Starting in November, New York's Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) will celebrate Mary Lou Williams centennial next year.
The celebration will begin with a Jazz For Young People concert entitled "Who Is Mary Lou Williams?" on Nov. 7. Wynton Marsalis and the JALC Orchestra will demonstrate Williams' influential work as a composer for students aged 6 and older, as well as their teachers and parents.
Two concerts, on Nov. 13 and Nov. 14, will feature guest pianists Geri Allen and Geoffrey Keezer joining the orchestra.
Along with these performances, JALC is hosting an "Are You The Next Mary Lou Williams?" Contest. Female pianists, age 15 or under, are encouraged to submit a video of a selected Williams’ tune, for a chance to perform with the JALC Orchestra with Marsalis as part of the Jazz for Young People concert. Deadline for submissions is Oct 14.
In January 2010, Williams' manager and spiritual guide, Father Peter O'Brien, will teach a class about her work and life.
As part of the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Program, JALC will distribute up to 4,500 charts of newly published Williams’ music to high schools across North America. These charts include “New Musical Express,” “Roll ‘Em” and “Walkin’ and Swingin’.” The program will culminate in the annual Essentially Ellington Competition and Festival on Williams’ actual birthday, May 8, 2010.
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